Our Greatest Epidemic

It’s not heart disease, cancer or diabetes. By 2020 our greatest epidemic will be depression. Neuropsychologist Dr. Michelle Bengston says the number suffering from depression will be greater than heart disease, cancer, and diabetes combined.

Why such an increase?

Medical researchers don’t know. It’s far easier to see the connection between diet and diabetes or exercise and heart disease.

Perhaps depression is increasing because of our comparison complex. Can Facebook take some blame for our nation’s depression?

There is a dark side to social media. Beth Moore said,

“Our social media world is training us up for our greatest complex. We think not only do we need to be great, we need others to know it.”

Futurama Meme

When did we make the mistake that thinking good is not good enough?

Facebook reminds us of who we wish we could be. Comparison envy.

Solomon, the wisest man in the world, said:

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. Proverbs 14:30

Solomon’s opulent lifestyle would have created a world of envy on Facebook. But he finally realized none of it mattered. King Solomon ruled the land, but his wealth had ruled him.

Social media allows us to keep up with family and friends. But as we begin 2017, let’s celebrate life honestly. If Facebook breeds envy in your mind, it’s not worth losing the joy in your heart.